Pauses for Lent Day 9
Pauses for Lent by Trevor Hudson
Day 9 Word: ASK
Scripture: “Ask, and it will be given you.” Matthew 7:7
“Ask,” Jesus teaches, “and it will be given you.” This teaching applies both to the way we approach others and the way we approach God. As Dallas Willard points out, “How beautiful it is to see relationships in which asking and receiving are a joyful and loving way of life.”
Asking for what we need does not mean we get everything we ask for. But through asking, we learn humility, discover our interdependence and allow both others and God to show their care for us. It is the way our relationships with God and one another become more real, honest, and intimate.
Asking may prove difficult for some of us. Because we want to look strong, in control, and self-sufficient, we don’t ask. Lent challenges us to truly see how needy we are, to stop pretending, and to ask.
Comment from Marie: Asking for prayer is one way to ask others and God for something. But even asking for prayer can be intimidating, despite times when prayer requests are solicited. Do you have a prayer request on your heart that you would want to share? What are your thoughts on today’s word?
Day 9 Word: ASK
Scripture: “Ask, and it will be given you.” Matthew 7:7
“Ask,” Jesus teaches, “and it will be given you.” This teaching applies both to the way we approach others and the way we approach God. As Dallas Willard points out, “How beautiful it is to see relationships in which asking and receiving are a joyful and loving way of life.”
Asking for what we need does not mean we get everything we ask for. But through asking, we learn humility, discover our interdependence and allow both others and God to show their care for us. It is the way our relationships with God and one another become more real, honest, and intimate.
Asking may prove difficult for some of us. Because we want to look strong, in control, and self-sufficient, we don’t ask. Lent challenges us to truly see how needy we are, to stop pretending, and to ask.
Comment from Marie: Asking for prayer is one way to ask others and God for something. But even asking for prayer can be intimidating, despite times when prayer requests are solicited. Do you have a prayer request on your heart that you would want to share? What are your thoughts on today’s word?
10 Comments
After writing a comment on ask, I was notified that my younger brother was found dead yesterday. So I am asking for prayer for my family.
Marie, I'm so sorry to hear about your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Oh Marie, I am so sorry to hear about your brother. Prayers are certainly coming for you and for your family. Praying for peace, comfort and that you may all feel God's presence.
Thank you Candi. It is comforting to have your prayers.
Marie, I am so sorry to hear of your brother's passing. Prayers for you and your family and hope for comfort and strength at this time. It seems insignificant given your loss, but I am asking for prayers for more patience for myself. I have been feeling very overwhelmed and have been showing it. Mostly to my family.
Marie, I am so sorry about the loss of your brother. Caring thoughts and prayers for comfort are with you and your family.
Deb, I am sorry to hear that you are feeling overwhelmed. I am praying that God will give you strength and peace.
Marie so sorry to hear about your brother. Praying for you and your family. Deb prayers for you for strength and patience and peace
Deb, I will certainly pray for patience and that you will feel less overwhelmed. I think many of us can identify with that feeling!ðŸ™ðŸ»ðŸ’•
Heartfelt prayers for you and your family, dear Marie. Such a difficult time for all of you. And, Deb, I'm praying for you, too, as you navigate the challenges of family. My 'ask' also concerns family, but I'll keep it between God and myself. God cares for all of us and knows our needs. Peace and comfort âœ¨ï¸ for all.